Contemporary Music Leader Programme
The Contemporary Music Leaders programme is delivered in partnership between TiME and HQ CAN, creating a clear pathway for young musicians to develop the confidence, skills and experience needed to become creative leaders within their communities.
The programme was established with funding from the Institute of Leadership and supports emerging musicians to build confidence, develop professional skills and gain practical experience across community settings, education and the wider music industry.
Through mentoring, leadership training and real-world industry experience, participants learn how to support other young people, lead creative activity and act as connectors across Leicester's music ecosystem. The programme also helps strengthen diversity within music leadership by creating opportunities for young people from a wide range of backgrounds to see themselves as future leaders in the sector.
As part of the 2025–26 pilot, participants designed and delivered a music leadership session during the Education Day at Leicester Music Conference, speaking to around 100 school students about creativity, opportunity and pathways into music. They also undertook key event roles including Artists Liaison, Expo Assistant Manager and Assistant Technical Support, gaining valuable experience in event management, teamwork and technical production.
The programme is already creating lasting impact, with participants continuing to take on leadership opportunities across Leicester, supporting young musicians and contributing to the wider music community. Through this work, TiME and HQ CAN are helping to develop a new generation of Contemporary Music Leaders who can inspire others, share their knowledge and strengthen connections between community music, education and the music industry.
Hear from our Contemporary Music Leaders
Mya – Artists Liaison
"Developing the panel session for the Education Day helped me understand what it means to lead a conversation and share ideas with younger students. It showed me that leadership isn't just about speaking, but also about listening and helping others feel confident to share their own experiences.
My role as Artists Liaison also helped me develop confidence communicating with performers and supporting the team to make sure the event ran smoothly."
Jonah – Expo Assistant Manager
"Planning and delivering the panel session together showed me how important teamwork and preparation are when you're leading something for other young people. Speaking to around 100 students gave me confidence and helped me realise that there's an awful lot of advice and support I want to give younger aspiring musicians that I wish I'd had.
Working as Expo Assistant Manager also helped me learn about organisation, professionalism and leadership in a real event environment."
Rishan – Assistant Technical Support
"Through the panel session I learned that leadership can be about sharing your experience and helping other young people see what opportunities are possible. Supporting the technical team at the conference also helped me understand the responsibility involved in live events and how important it is to stay calm, solve problems and support the whole team."
Members of the Contemporary Music Leaders team lead a presentation, sharing their experiences, music leadership journeys and advice with young people